Publications

Explore an archive of Hafed Al-Ghwell’s publications, ranging from academic papers to opinion pieces and columns. The archive spans Hafed’s contributions to the fields of Middle Eastern and North African studies, particularly in the fields of security, migration, energy, sustainability, and the nuanced dynamics of US and EU foreign policies in relation to the region.

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The sad inevitability of the return to arms in Sudan

In Sudan, recent violent clashes between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces have sparked fears of civil war. Deep-rooted political turmoil, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic hardships, has fractured the Transitional Sovereign Council.

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In Iraq, a resilient Al-Sudani forges on

Amid reflections on the 20th anniversary of the US-led invasion of Iraq, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani's government faces a turbulent landscape. While Iraq holds vast potential, it grapples with multifaceted challenges hindering progress, including economic woes, political tensions…

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Tunisia’s descent into madness continues

Tunisia's journey from the promise of the Arab Spring to its current turmoil highlights the complexities of democratization it faces. As opposition is suppressed and arbitrary arrests are common, President Kais Saied's authoritarian…

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Iraqi PM’s delicate balancing act

Iraq's political landscape, shaped by US-Iran rivalry, has seen shifts in influence. Despite expectations of US military expulsion under a pro-Iranian government, Prime Minister Al-Sudani has navigated a delicate balance by resisting Shiite factions' attempts…

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The cost of missed opportunities in the Maghreb

The Arab Maghreb Union's dream of unity remains elusive due to political hostilities and external pressures. Despite calls for economic integration, skepticism among Maghreb countries persists, and tensions between Algeria and Morocco hinder progress…

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Pluralism and the Arab world

The Arab world, with its diverse population and complex history, struggles to embrace pluralism amid sociopolitical challenges. Attempts at inclusive Arab identity often yield to exclusive elitism, hindering progress…

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Libya faces the same old problems in the new year

Even though a new year has begun, Libya is still engulfed in an extended conflict reminiscent of previous turbulent years. The nation remains fragmented and vulnerable to manipulation by both internal and external forces as a result of the failure of attempts at political reconciliation.

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Strategic autonomy in Arab world’s sights

The Middle East and North Africa face unpredictable futures amidst internal and external challenges, including climate change, regional tensions, and socioeconomic pressures. Despite some macroeconomic optimism, disparities persist, with oil-importing countries…

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Reclaiming a lost half-century in Libya

Amidst the tumultuous aftermath of the Qaddafi regime's collapse, Libya remains engulfed in conflict, with power struggles over oil wealth fueling the chaos. The country's fragmented state, marked by porous borders and persistent instability, contributes to trafficking and migration…

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What next for Tunisia?

Amidst preparations for upcoming elections in Tunisia, President Kais Saied manoeuvres to consolidate power, wielding constitutional changes to favour his hyper-presidency. The alterations undermine legislative authority, cementing a system where the government answers solely to the presidency.

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There is no clear end in sight to Libya’s deadlock

In a frustrating acknowledgment of Libya's perpetual deadlock, the UN's 10th special envoy, Abdoulaye Bathily, concedes the absence of a clear resolution. The international community's flawed approach, exemplified by the controversial ICC prosecutor's meeting with Haftar…

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Iraq – is there hope at last?

In the wake of last year's elections, Iraq's journey towards stability has been marred by violence and political deadlock, escalated by endemic corruption and unemployment. However, Abdul Latif Rashid's recent election as president offers a glimmer of hope for change…

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